Five undrafted free agents with the best shot at making the Oakland Raiders 53-man roster.
From Darius Latham to Neiko Thorpe to Denver Kirkland, the Oakland Raiders have had a string of UDFA/underdog players to make the 53-man roster in recent memory. While many little-known players serve to be nothing more than special teams fodder for a few weeks before being cut, the Raiders have had a ton of success recently in unearthing gems who contribute meaningful minutes or make major impacts in game.
With another strong draft class, as well as a developing roster, the holes on this team are fewer than they have been in years. That being said, another strong UDFA class brings hope for newcomers to make an impact.
As such, I plan to outline five dark horses to make the 53-man roster, something I had done before with some success. You can find a list of all UDFA/first-year signees invited to the Raiders camp here and their full 90-man roster here.
Najee Harris, OLB, Wagner College
Not to be confused with Alabama five-star freshman running back Najee Harris, the Raiders Najee Harris is a little-known linebacker from Division-II Wagner College in Staten Island, New York.
A two and a half year starter for the Seahawks, Harris is a 6’1″ 225-pound speed demon (4.5 second 40-yard dash) who brings special teams experience and coverage ability to a position lacking any real depth for Oakland.
Add in the fact that he was initially a tryout player who impressed the staff enough to sign him to a three-year deal, and I think at worst that Najee Harris makes a strong case for practice squad consideration.
With the loss of Daren Bates in free agency, the Raiders are in need of a depth linebacker who makes his mark on special teams, something Harris is a perfect fit for.